One of my favorite plant based nutrients to recommend for my patients and family members is resveratrol. It is not only a phenomenally potent anti-oxidant (“anti-rust nutrient”), it has been shown in research studies to protect DNA and now a HUGE NEW BENEFIT has been documented in initial studies.

So what is the exciting NEW news?

Well it has been discovered that high doses of resveratrol may improve blood flow in the brain and potentially boost brain health, say results of a new human study from the UK. According to the researchers from Britian, a single dose of 250 or 500 milligrans can boost brain blood flow. The researchers concluded: “The results of the current study provide the first indications in humans that resveratrol may be able to modulate cerebral blood flow variables.”

The human brain is comprise of approximately 100 billion nerve cells, with 500 trillion connections. Supporting healthy blood flow to the brain, is like watering a garden in the midst of summer. Without optimal flow of water to the garden (blood flow to the brain), maximal production and yield will not result. With aging, blood flow diminishes due to hardening of the arteries, so a super plant nutrient like reseveratrol offers a full package of increased blood flow, antioxidant and DNA protection.

The American Heart Association, reported March 11, 2011 in the prestigious journal “Stroke”, that a coffee habit could protect the brain from a stroke. They studied an amazing 34,670 women aged 49 to 83 and followed them for 10 years and discovered that there was 22-25 percent lower adjusted risk of total stroke amongst those that consumed at least one cup of coffee per day compared to women that drank less than a cup per day.

The big question is how does coffee confer protection to the brain? Well it appears to be having a whole body effect, in so much as it helps to decrease subclinical inflammation, oxidative stress, and improves insulin sensitivity which are all huge risk factors for multiple systemic diseases and also diabetes.

As the authors of the study report and I quote: “Some women have avoided consuming coffee because they have thought it is unhealthy,” she added. “In fact, increasing evidence indicates that moderate coffee consumption may decrease the risk of some diseases such as diabetes, liver cancer and possibly stroke.”

Bottomline: It is reported that a mere 11% of Americans consume the recommended 5 to 7 servings of fresh fruits and veggies, that means we have a tremendous void when it comes to getting enough antioxidants. Well, coffee confers important antioxidant protection and several other natural protectants. What I really like about the conclusion of this scientific article and I quote is “These findings suggest that low or no coffee consumption is associated with an increased risk of stroke in women.” is that not drinking coffee puts one at an increased risk of stroke. Indeed it appears coffee has arrived as a dietary recommendation for those that wish to pursue wellness, with their doctor’s approval of course.

Spring is the season for colds and flus. So what a better time for a 2011 release of the latest look at Zinc for use in the common cold. In my clinical practice I have most of my patients on Zinc all year through, because it supports healthy bones, immune function and is an important antioxidant. For years at the first sign of a cold, I have my patients increase their zinc intake short term and for 1 to 2 weeks during and after a week long illness.

Well, it looks like my clinical insights have just been further validated from a cutting edge review the scientific literature. The researchers observed that….”zinc administered within 24 hours of onset of symptoms reduces the duration and severity of the common cold in healthy people. When supplemented for at least five months, it reduces cold incidence, school absenteeism and prescription of antibiotics in children.”

Bottomline: Zinc supports overall health year around, so it makes sense to take daily for most people. So is a multivitamin enough? Well, my patients target 15 to 30 mg of zinc per day, so assuming your doctor is in agreement, adding zinc to your routine might be a good way to hedge the risk of illness, of course there is no gurantees, yet as the Boy Scotts propose, “Be Prepared”.

In clinical practice I find that low B12 and B vitamins levels are very prevalent. B12 is critical for healthy brain function, the creation and maintenance of red blood cells, and supporting the cellular health of the 75 trillion cells of the body. When it comes to B12 deficits, there are many causes, including an imbalanced vegetarian diet, use of acid blockers and even the diabetic medication Metformin.

Now there is a new potential application for B12. Those with a chronic cough may find that B12 can help them. Researchers have found that chronic cough is characterized by sensory neuropathy, meaning unhealthy nerve function. Vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) deficiency has been shown to both central and peripheral nervous system damage and has been implicated in sensory neuropathy and autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

What does that mean? Low B12 can contribute to nerve symptoms, involving the brain, hands, feet, eyes and yes, even the cough centers. B12 is often found abundantly amounts in energy drinks, so for those with coughs due to B12 deficits, look for a high quality Energy Drink like Dynamic Duo and you may be able to stop that nagging cough and increase your energy and focus as well.

Health Tips
On the Go!

Improve Posture

1.Avoid slouching. Be aware of your posture as you walk, sit, and drive, keep shoulders squared and head pulled back and up.

2.Imagine a thread pulling the top of your head toward the ceiling. Visualization can help improve your sense of position.

3.If your job requires you to sit for long periods, take frequent breaks to stand, stretch and shake it out.

4.Maintain a strong core to help support proper posture. Add core-training exercises to your daily routine.

5.A firm mattress and ergonomic pillow help achieve proper back support while you sleep, so you'll stand straighter in the a.m.

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